Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney Bolsters California Corporate Practice with Key Hire
SAN DIEGO (November 2025) – Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney has added Nicole Gates Lean as a senior attorney in its San Diego office, significantly strengthening the firm’s corporate and intellectual property capabilities. Lean joins Buchanan from dr. Seuss Enterprises, where she served as Vice President of Legal.
The addition of Lean, a seasoned legal veteran with over a decade of experience, signals Buchanan’s continued investment in its California presence and its commitment to providing sophisticated counsel to clients navigating complex commercial transactions and brand management challenges. Her deep understanding of in-house legal needs, coupled with her background in intellectual property, positions the firm to better serve innovation-driven businesses across multiple sectors.
Lean’s corporate practice will focus on structuring deals that protect innovation,strengthen brand value,and foster long-term growth for clients across various industries. Previously, she advised technology, media, and consumer products clients on commercial contracts and IP-centric transactions at international law firms.
“We are thrilled to welcome her to our team in San Diego,” said Jason Murtagh, shareholder and head of the San Diego office. “It is an exciting area of opportunity,and with Nicole’s addition,we are positioned to have continued growth.”
Jennifer Minter, executive shareholder and corporate section chair, emphasized the strategic importance of the hire. ”Our corporate practice in California continues to be an area of strategic focus for the firm. Joining the firm as a former in-house leader, Nicole deeply understands the needs of our clients. With her experience, we will continue to enhance how we are serving clients in California and across our national footprint.”
Matt short, shareholder and head of the California corporate group, added, “Nicole is an excellent addition to our corporate team in California.She helps clients navigate complex issues with her business acumen, and she offers practical legal strategies to help move their brands forward. I am excited to see what we will achieve as a team.”
“I am looking forward to this new opportunity at Buchanan,” said Lean. “They’ve built an excellent team in San Diego,and the firm has an remarkable national corporate practice. I am excited to expand my practice and experience with my new colleagues.”
Lean earned her law degree from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia.
